Will Abhimanyu get a royal farewell in Dasara procession?
Karnataka government officials are urging the Forest Department to allow the veteran elephant Abhimanyu to participate in the Mysuru Dasara procession one last time. Despite a decision to retire the 60-year-old tusker, supporters argue he deserves a ceremonial farewell for his years of service.
Why it matters
The Mysuru Dasara is a major cultural event, and the treatment of the elephants involved is a matter of significant public and emotional interest in India.
Can celebrated tusker Abhimanyu, who served as a member of the elite Mysuru Dasara jumbo squad for over 25 years and carried the golden howdah six times, get one final opportunity to participate in the iconic Jamboo Savari.
With the Forest Department deciding to retire the 60-year-old tusker from Dasara duties, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, who earlier served as the Forest Minister, has urged Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy to allow Abhimanyu to participate in this year’s Vijayadashami procession and give the veteran jumbo a ceremonial and royal farewell.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in